Success Stories
St. Anthony’s Inclusive Playground
Vision
Carolina Miranda, parent to two children who attend St Anthony’s School, wanted to create a space that welcomed every child to play together, regardless of their abilities. “It’s not about removing opportunities for kids who want to climb or jump,” Carolina said. “It’s about adding opportunities so that there is something for everyone.”
Journey
In March 2023 the conversations began to create a more inclusive play space at the school where Carolina’s children attend. After an incredible amount of hard work and perseverance to overcome challenges and barriers to move the project forward, Carolina was overwhelmed with joy when in February 2025 they were finally able to announce and fundraise for the new SAS Inclusive Playground. Design and construction took place in the months that followed, and after raising $537,000, just in time for “back-to-school”, the beautiful new playground was ready for children to play.
Impact
Since opening in September 2025, the playground has already transformed recess into a more joyful, dynamic, and inclusive experience. Every student — regardless of ability — can now access the space and find something that engages them. The simple fact that all children can play together has reshaped the culture of recess. Students are forming new friendships, learning cooperation through shared play, and discovering the value of
empathy by seeing firsthand how inclusion strengthens their community. The playground is not only a safe and exciting physical space — it is now a daily lesson in equity, community, and the joy that comes when everyone belongs.
Julia’s Junction: West Kelowna’s First Fully Inclusive Playground
Vision
In early 2022, I set out to create a playground where my children, Julia and Tanner, along with every other child could play together without barriers. Julia’s Junction was born out of a desire to build a space that prioritized inclusion, accessibility, and joy.
Journey
- Timeline: 16 months from concept to grand opening.
- Funds Raised: $900,000 through grants, partnerships, and community support.
- Community Involvement: Engaged local businesses, schools, and families to bring the vision to life.
Impact
- Children of all ages and abilities now have a safe and accessible place to play.
- Parents and caregivers feel included and connected.
- Julia’s Junction has become a symbol of what communities can achieve together.
Golf for Julia Annual Fundraiser
Vision
Started in 2017, Golf for Julia is an annual event to raise funds for my daughter’s spinal cord rehabilitation and advocate for accessibility awareness.
Journey
- Hosted annually since 2017.
- Raised over $281,500 to date.
- Built a supportive network of local businesses and families.
Impact
This event not only provides vital resources for Julia but also raises awareness about the importance of inclusivity and community-driven support.
"On behalf of the City of West Kelowna, we commend you for your outstanding leadership, unwavering drive, commitment and unparalleled dedication to the creation of Julia's Junction in the heart of Westbank Town Centre. Julia's Junction is more than a playground, it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a community. Our community is better because of people like you - people who give back and get involved with community groups. Thank you for all you have done, and I hope others are as inspired as much as I am."